Katie SwiftPHOTOGRAPHER

Albrecht Extended Family | Smith Gardens | Oakwood, Ohio

Photographing the Albrecht family was an absolute joy! We planned a morning session—because let’s be honest, no one’s getting much sleep with a little one at home anyways 🙂 It ended up being the perfect choice! Smith Gardens in Oakwood was glowing, and so was this blessed bunch.

The undeniable star of the morning was sweet Lucien. His name means light, and truly, he brought it. He lit up every frame with his bright eyes and joyful little spirit, it’s obvious that this little guy is so very loved!

What made this session even more meaningful was that Svetlana—an incredibly talented photographer herself—trusted me to photograph her family. That kind of trust is the highest compliment. If you haven’t seen her work yet, go check it out at svetlanaphotography.com!

From the winding green grass paths to the cheerful pops of purple allium, it all came together so naturally. Thank you, Albrecht family, for letting me be a part of this sweet chapter in your story.

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Posted in extended families, Family Photography, For Photographers

Luke | West Carrollton Senior ’25 | 2nd St. Market | Dayton

Luke is a senior at West Carrollton who plans to pursue music after graduation. He is Logan’s younger brother, whom I photographed a few years back at Riverscape. The brothers play in a metal band together called Jesus of Hamartia.

We shot his session in front of graffiti walls and The Silos around 2nd Street Market in downtown Dayton. The trains came, and the rains were tamed!

I loved photographing Luke, not only because he’s gorgeous (um, hello Kurt Cobain?!), but also because he has that artist intensity- he looks right at you, daring you to look right back at him, unafraid to be seen…

One word to describe me is driven.

My favorite thing about the world is that it’s one big puzzle that you try your best to figure out.

I play a lot of guitar and video games.

I listen to a lot of metal music.

I look up to family and some guys from my favorite bands.

I always try and see things from all perspectives.

Most people don’t know I have absolutely awful eyesight.

I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff, even when it doesn’t feel small.

But I’m too nice sometimes.

After graduation, I plan to go to college and pursue music.

In ten years, I see myself hopefully doing something with music.

Shout out to Mama and big bro for hanging in the rain!!!

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Posted in Senior Photography

Wakelight | Vagabond Studio & Gallery | Dayton, OH

On Sunday, we played our first true ‘listening room’ at Dayton’s beloved Vagabond Studio & Gallery.

It was a cold and dreary day in March after a week of blessed sunshine and spring weather.

A winter’s last-ditch effort kind of day to keep us all in pajamas & binging on PBS Masterpiece forever.

So I was not surprised when, one by one, faithful friends started texting me that they wouldn’t be able to make it out after all.

Still, a few showed, and we had ourselves an intimate concert.

It took me a song or two to get used to the quiet—my nerves wanted to fill the empty spaces—but once I adjusted, it felt pretty sacred.

Just a small group of us cozily gathered there in Jen and Jonah’s creative gallery, soaking up the room draped in original art, funky furniture, and colorful twinkle lights.

Old and new friends, sitting close, listening with smiles, nodding their heads to the music.

Our Jonah perched in the window seat above, watching his dad sing the song written for him.

Sweet Savannah on the couch next to her grandparents, taking pictures of her mom’s silly singing faces.

Warming each other in ways only we Northerners know how…

Big thanks to the Hunter crew for everything big and small- from the band poster to the pizza, salad and hot tea- you made us feel special 🙂

Thanks to Monika and Chris for running the sound and Brandon for shooting video!

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Posted in Personal, Wakelight

Bird Angel

This morning, while walking the dog, I hear the hawk screech overhead

she cries out like a mother

circling in the silky sad sky, ’round and ’round,

the sun brightening her wings as she angles and glides in the wind

she’s following us- I swear she is!

us trekking up the cul-de-sac hill and back down again

the dog stopping to sniff

me straining to see

Mother spinning above

Mother spinning below

I know birds aren’t angels

but I get the message

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Posted in Musings, Personal, writing

Jay | SESI Senior Class of 2025 | Maryville, TN

Jay is a senior at Samuel Everett School of Innovation and plans to work in cybersecurity after graduation. He’s also my favorite red-headed nephew 🙂 We shot his senior pictures in downtown Maryville and then chased the sunset through the mountains, my sister-in-law Lindsay at the wheel, driving fast and fearlessly as only a Tennessee local could.

Jay, I hope you have a memorable senior year filled with electrifying guitar licks, magnificent mountain drives, and backyard bonfires with your buddies…

One word to describe me is motivated.

I love jamming out on my guitar, hanging with my buddies, and working out.

I play tennis for SESI. I’m also a guitar player for a new band I’m starting with my buddies.

Most people don’t know that I’m self taught on the guitar and piano, and I also taught myself how to make beats.

One of my favorite things in the world is music. Music makes me feel more alive, and it can be used in many ways. Jamming out with my buddies is a perfect example.

I mainly listen to rock but also a little bit of rap and hip-hop.

Spending time with loved ones is always important, and it’s one of my favorites.

Can’t forget cruising around with my buddies in the mountains.

I’ve learned the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of life, even during challenging times.

I look up to the people in my life who work hard & succeed but don’t put work and money first. Those who motivate others to do the right thing and steer people in the right direction.

I like how mature I am for my age and the way I think about things differently from others.

I don’t like that I have problems with self-control and find myself getting stressed easily.

After graduation, I plan to get a long-term and well-paying job in cybersecurity and save up to buy a house or apartment.

I also hope to be in a band that I can do gigs with.

In ten years, I see myself in a successful career. I can see myself having a wife and kids and still pursuing music.

Shout out to Mama for raising such a fine young man 🙂

See Jay’s Pick:

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Posted in Senior Photography

Heather + Jerry | Fall Wedding | Heather’s Cafe | Springboro

It was a perfect fall day for Heather & Jerry to get married in front of their closest family and friends. The sky, shaded deep Autumn blue, the trees with fiery leaves still hanging on, and the rich golden sun, gleamed and glittered above and around us. It was one of those rare, deeply satisfying afternoons. In the middle of a fast and fleeting season, time slowed, hearts opened and love, thick as molasses, poured out on all of us until we were full. Of course, we did save room for a glass of champagne or two and the most glorious charcuterie!

Congratuations Heather & Jerry! May your life together continue to overflow with loads of laughter, gardens of light and celebrations of love.

One word to describe our love is eternal.

We’re both in our 50’s and it’s really hard to think of any kind of obstacle when I truly have my best friend by my side. We just know each other like no one I have been with EVER!!

I first met Heather at her establishment. I have been a friend of her daughter and ex-husband and was at her place with them when we met.

We would see each other occasionally or if he would come into the cafe after work. Then as funny as it is, I helped plan his previous wedding. His wedding & reception was at Heather’s. Obviously we were both in other relationships at the time.

Our first time talking in person (not in relationships) was at a friend’s mutual birthday party (at Heather’s Cafe – of course). Although we didn’t run in the same circles, we would run into each other occasionally through mutual friends.

 I had actually reached out to him via messenger just to say “hi” before that. We talked for hours at the party. Then he asked me out & the rest is history.

My first impression of Heather was WOW, she moves around her business a ton!!! It was like one minute she was there and the next gone!!! I found her energy level very impressive and her smile…that smile was just something I couldn’t get enough of!!!

She was super nice and just so easy to talk to.

I loved his laugh & how he looked at me… literally into my soul.

 In my opinion there is no one, and I mean no one, that has the kind soul she has. I always tell people if you know her, like, truly know her, you know how fortunate you are. If you don’t truly know her, man you’re missing out on one special person.

She has sooo many qualities to list: her heart, her passion, her drive, her work ethic, her compassion and her willingness to do anything for anyone with nothing wanted in return. She is crazy beautiful and I’m one lucky guy!!

He loves me for all my flaws & my strengths: my insane work ethic, my need to help others before myself, which in turn, is him as well. He embraces my independence.

I admire his ability to not sweat the small stuff, his confidence, his unwavering love for me, and his complete unapologetic honesty!!

She just has this unique ability to communicate with annoying people in a way also that leaves people thinking how nice she is even when she isn’t being nice!! She still laughs, like really laughs, when I’m being funny.

Almost 4.5 years of being together and when she talks I still can’t wait to hear what she says.

He still makes me belly laugh after all these years.

Our relationship is balanced. Our communication, and more importantly, our understanding of each other, is a big strength of ours. Heather works crazy long hours during the spring and summer and is not home very much except to sleep and shower.

We never have jealousy or argue about our lack of time together because we both understand it’s her business and in this day of age as far as staffing goes she can’t always just leave.

When we “got together” I had been separated for a year from a nine year relationship that literally tore my heart in half. He had been in a five year relationship- three of those married.

We both had to learn how to love again, to trust, to be good at letting someone else in. 

Props to all the amazing vendors who made this day exceptional:

Ceremony Venue: Heather’s Parent’s
Reception Venue: Heather’s Cafe
Food: Charcuterie from Gather & Graze, Pizzas from The Barrel, Wings from Crooked Handle,  The Hamburger Wagon
Ceremony Music: David Thornton Acoustic

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Posted in Wedding Photography

Welcome Baby Brianne | Newborn Photography at Home | Springboro, OH

The Palmer family is all sorts of adorable! Mom and Dad are both engineers and 2 out of 3 of their kiddos seem to be on the fast track to becoming photographers 🙂 Their sweet newborn, baby Brianne, was as pleasant as a playful bunny rabbit, peeking at us from time to time, taking in her bright & blessed new world…

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Posted in Family Photography, Newborn Photography

Olivia | Lebanon Senior Class of 2025 | Cox Arboretum

Olivia is a senior at Lebanon High School and plans to be a teacher after graduation. We shot her senior session at Cox Arboretum. It was a bright and sunshiney day- felicitous for this brilliant blue-eyed belle, beaming with happy smiles.

Olivia, may your senior year be as merry as you are! Brimming with joy, laughter and delight…

One word to describe me is thoughtful.

I love nature, community, creativity and freedom.

Sometimes I take the longer way home because I enjoy being in my car, driving and listening to my music… with the windows down occasionally too 😉

I listen to lots of pop and a little country. Think Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams, Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter.

My creative thinking and problem solving combine to make the good skills in me but I struggle with lack of time management.

I like to design lots of things, make crafts, puzzles and games and also really incorporate my joy for working with technology and doing online projects.

If I had more free time, I enjoy realistic fiction in books and movies that have romance, drama, comedy, all the things are relatable, feel-good, and sometimes even sad, about life.

I’ve learned that priorities are the basis of all our actions.

For several years I was in band and played the flute. More recently, I have focused my interest on teaching and give a lot of time to my school’s Teacher Academy program, interning and learning what it takes to be a teacher.

I had such a good experience over the summer working with kids at YMCA camp. I also have done a lot of community service and tutoring.

I was surprised to learn how much the younger generation feels picked on by their peers.

I participated in an anti-bullying program at the elementary school and nearly all of the kids “stood on the line” because they felt that way.

I look up to my dad, who has been a constant figure in my life and is always doing everything for his kids.

He shows up no matter how busy. He wakes up with us every morning and takes care of us when we go to school. He drives us everywhere and is always ready to pick us up and ensure our safety.

Ever since I was little we were best buds and I’m his “number one” (first-born).

After graduation I plan on going to college and majoring in Math and/or Science Education.

I look forward to figuring out what age I want to teach within the next couple of months.

In ten years I see myself finally settled into my ideal teaching job, in the location I plan on living, and looking into expanding my housing.

I hope that once everything is set in stone, I can pursue my interest in STEM further, as well as start doing Graphic Design on the side.

Shoutout to Mama!!!

See Olivia’s Pick:

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Posted in Senior Photography

Bush Family at the Creek | E. Milo Beck

Join me in welcoming the beautiful Bush bunch- Kylie, Ryan, Riley and Noah with special appearances from Grandma Diane! They are a military family who recently arrived from Florida. They have been in the Dayton area for a little over a year. When Kylie found me on Google, she told me that she loved the way I captured the Mamas in my family sessions and the fact that I offered a military discount. Because the Bush’s are out-of-towners, they were wide open to location suggestions as long as fall leaves and a creek were involved.

I suggested my hometown favorite, E. Milo Beck Park. Although it can be a bit longer of a hike to the creek, I knew the tall grass fields on the way would provide ample opportunities for spontaneous games of tag, big brother piggy-back rides and lots of hand holding. As I led them through the tiny wooded trail and down the craggy cliff to the cold water creek, Grandma Diane, wisely hanging back in the tall woods, cheered the kids on below as they braved the slippery rocks. It was their first time creekin’!

I feel honored to have been the one to capture such an “Ohio” milestone for the Bush crew, and I hope to capture many more Midwest milestones during their relatively short time here…

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Posted in Family Photography

Nawrocki Bartling Family | At Home | Springboro, Ohio

When Christina messaged me on instagram about getting family pictures taken at their old farmhouse, I was excited. Family sessions at home are my absolute favorite- especially dog families! When I mapped their address on the day of the session, I had to laugh. We live only three minutes away from each other! The nosy neighbor in me was defintely curious to meet the family who lived in this unique property with the majestic weeping willow I admired as I drove past almost daily.

As you can see in this long post full of smiles, scrabble, swings & trampolines, we had no trouble getting to know one another…

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Posted in At Home, Family Photography

Katelyn | Miami Valley Senior Class of 2025 | Smith Gardens

This was my second time capturing Katelyn. Her mom, Lisa, found me a few years ago when she was looking for someone to photograph Katelyn’s sweet sixteen milestone. We all instantly connected- both on and off camera. So I was thrilled to work with them again this fall for Katelyn’s senior pictures and even more excited when I saw Grandma had joined them for the session. The more generations of amazing women I get to meet, the better!!!

We shot Katelyn’s senior session at what is usually a hidden gem, Smith Gardens. It was homecoming night, however, so we had to share the tiny garden with swarms of pretty girls in short dresses paired with nervous boys doing their best to smile for doting moms with cameras. We weaved our way through the giggling crowds and found solace in the shadows underneath the gabled garden patio. We took time to stop and smell the flowers, reflected in the blue waters of the Koi pond and most importantly, made sure to grab a few snapshots with mom and grandma.

Katelyn, I hope you have a wonderful senior year making joy & grace-filled memories that can carry you through a lifetime.

One word to describe me is resilient.

I’m a competitive swimmer and train year round. I run cross country in the fall and I’m also a part of Green Club at my school.

I’ve learned that it’s really important to take a moment for yourself.

I listen to a bit of everything: Country, Pop, and R&B. People are sometimes surprised by my diverse music taste ranging from the 80’s with my grandma to Drake, Zach Bryan, and Taylor Swift with my friends.

I’m so lucky to be able to attend Miami Valley School, which has prepared me well for the outside world and workforce later on in life. They’ve given me the opportunity and the tools to really do anything I want in life.

The sky’s the limit.

I’ve learned that I’m better at managing change than I thought I was.

I look up to my mom because she is one of the hardest-working people I know. She’s always there for me and gives the best advice. She always knows what’s best and puts thought and care into everything she does. I also look up to my dad because he’s been faced with a lot of challenges in his life and always perseveres through them. Finally, I’ve always been close with my grandma and appreciate her positivity and optimistic outlook on life.

After graduation I plan to pursue Biomedical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.

In ten years I see myself working in a hospital as a Biomedical Engineer inventing technology to help others.

See Katelyn’s Pick:

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Kahlil | Springboro Senior Class of 2025 | Eastwood & Oregon

Kahlil is a senior at Springboro High School and plans to be a mechanical engineer after he graduates. We shot his senior session at Eastwood Metropark & the Oregon District. We had a few special furry friends make guest appearances, including Kahlil’s wise, old tabby cat, aptly named Silver, and the funky, flashy, fresh puppy pug, Gucci who was a total show-off 🙂

Kahlil, I hope you have a fulfilling senior year packed with love, laughter and life-giving friendships.

One word to describe me is caring.

I’ve learned that giving back to others what you have received is the only way to truly “pass it on.”

I am involved in Ultimate Frisbee, NHS, Superintendent Student Council, Chess Club, and Environmental club.

I listen to rap, pop, hip hop, country, whatever I’m in the mood for.

I love to take information and forge my own path different to anyone else’s while still having similarities to bond with others through community.

I look up to myself, while I have many idols, or talented people who I wish I could be like. I understand that I am my own person and always chase the best version of myself.

I like my ability to make strong relationships with people by using healthy practices and boundaries.

I struggle with relying on selfish tendencies when I am working through hard emotions.

Most people don’t know that I’m still not 100% sure what direction I want to go in life, despite telling people I am set on engineering.

As I have begun to become self responsible I cannot wait to be able to make decisions without having to consult my parents for the smallest detail.

After graduation I plan to go to a college and study mechanical engineering.

In ten years I see myself as a well-balanced human being who is committed to my job or whatever I am doing.

Shoutout to the fam jam for bringing all the furry friends and many thanks to Michelle for making it happen!!!

See Kahlil’s Pick:

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Aiden | Springboro Senior Class of 2025 | Caesar Creek Lake

Aiden is a senior at Springboro High School and plans to be a realtor after he graduates. We shot his senior session at Caesar Creek Lake. It was a clear, blue, summer sky morning- perfect for soul surfing and wake splashing!

Aiden, I hope your senior year shreds!

One word to describe me is awesome.

My favorite thing about the world is Jesus and His love for us.

I look up to Jesus because He is the way to eternal life.

I like to hangout with friends, lift, snowboard, and read the Bible.

The most important thing I’ve learned lately is Jesus and His teachings.

After graduation I plan to become a realtor or go to college and get a degree.

In ten years I see myself with a wife and family.

Shout out to the Captain and his Skipper!

See Aiden’s pick:

 

 

 

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Isabella | Springboro Senior Class of 2025 | Patricia Allyn Park

Isabella is a senior at Springboro High School and plans to study in the medical field after graduation. We shot her senior session at Patricia Allyn Park. We were gifted with a sacred, shining sunset, perfect for soulful silhouettes and twirling about in pretty dresses.

Isabella, may your senior year be righteous! Full of God’s goodness, grace and extravagant blessings…

One word to describe me is forgiving.

I’ve learned that anyone can change even if they have hurt you.

I like the sights that God has created and the great, amazing people I’ve met. I love to learn more about my culture the world has to give me.

In my free time I like to go to church with friends, preach about God, go to the rodeo with friends and read.

I play volleyball at the YMCA. I’m in book club at the school and I volunteer to help the homeless.

I listen to all kinds of music. I’m very open.

I like my honesty.

 I struggle with trying to please others knowing I can’t.

I’ve learned that even though I may not be perfect doesn’t mean I can’t be happy. The things I do now are to please God and not others anymore.

I look up to God because he is the best example for me and for the people around me.

He has taught me so much by forgiving and giving people a chance and learning that even though the world isn’t perfect we can make the most of it.

After graduation I plan to study in the medical field.

In ten years I see myself taking care of sick babies or patients.

Shoutout to Mamacita bonita!

See Isabella’s pick:

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Leila | Springboro Senior class of 2025 | Wegerzyn Gardens

What can I say? Just like her brother Ethan, who I photographed back in 2022,  Leila is a natural beauty. She was so comfortable in front of my camera that by the end of the session, I almost felt as if I had cheated her in some way because I didn’t have to work very hard. She made my job effortless- even with the unexpected thunderstorm we grabbed so many lovely moments in a relatively short time. We shot her senior session at the most magical place in Dayton, Wegerzyn Gardens. The happy wildflowers surrounded Leila like a friendly hug, the long lane of royal Cypress trees stood tall giving their approval as she skipped and jogged and twirled on by. Even the rain showered her in sparkles!

Leila, I hope your senior year is as full of pretty smiles as you are 🙂

One word to describe me is funny.

In my free time I like to do my nails, hang out with friends, and relax.

I play softball and am involved in National Honors Society.

I listen to Rnb, Pop & Rock.

My favorite things about the world are sunsets, the stars, music, friends and family.

I look up to my parents because they have always worked hard to be supportive of me and maintain a loving environment.


Most people don’t know that I struggle to be social and it can be draining for me.

I am a very honest person.

I’ve learned to not let other’s opinions define who I am.

I’m also impatient.

Lately I’ve learned how much the small events matter.

After I graduate I plan on attending college and earning a degree in chemical engineering.

In ten years I see myself living by the beach with lots of pets.

See Leila’s pick:

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Jonathan | Miamisburg Senior Class of 2025 | Riverfront Park, Miamisburg

Jonathan is a senior at Miamisburg High School and plans to study Mechanical Engineering in college. We shot his senior session on his home turf in downtown Miamisburg & Riverfront Park. The weather was summer bright and blazing- perfect for highlighting Jonathan’s impressive athletic abilities and laid back smiles.

Jonathan, I hope your senior year is flippin’ amazing!

One word to describe me is well-rounded.

I like my ability to succeed in multiple areas.

I’m involved in school and club soccer, pep and jazz band, and tumbling.

I struggle with procrastination.

I enjoy many types of genres of music but some of my favorites are country, pop rock, and contemporary christian music.

Most people don’t know that I’m a gymnast.

I’ve learned the importance of staying in the moment and enjoying every bit of life.

After graduation I plan to go to university to study Mechanical Engineering.

In ten years I see myself hopefully married and starting my career.

Shout out to Mom for raising such a nice, young man!

See Jonathan’s Pick:

 

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Lisa Lifestyle Headshot Session | At Home | Xenia, Ohio

I first met Lisa a few years ago when I photographed her Shitzu boys, Oscar and Felix, at her beautiful home. We had a magical morning and instantly connected.

So when she reached out this spring in need of some updated headshots, I was thrilled. Lisa is a realtor so she definitely wanted some classic headshots, but she also wanted a few extra casual poses to have for her personal online profiles.

I suggested a Lifestyle headshot session which includes 30 minutes and an outfit change or two- just enough time and variety to show off Lisa’s beautiful smile, gorgeous red geraniums, and of course, her beloved furbabies!

 

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Posted in Business Photography

Corey + Leah | Small Wedding | Lifepointe Church | Kettering Ohio

I loved capturing Leah and Corey’s small wedding ceremony at Lifepointe Church in Kettering. It felt a bit nostalgic, like it usually does at Lifepointe- the same church where Josh and I were married all those years ago; the same church where Leah and I met, when our kids were still kids- when we were still kids.

But it also felt fresh and new, like an open window on a spring day. Love was in the air! Congratulations Leah and Corey, I am so happy that you found one another! May the rest of your days be filled with love, light and lots of good coffee 😉

One word to describe our relationship is peaceful. It’s easy…even when things get hard.

We initially met on a dating website. The first time we met in person was at a wine bar in kettering called Rumbleseat Wine. I thought Corey looked younger than me. I saw him before he saw me. He was talking to the store owner, which made me feel comfortable because I saw that he was a naturally friendly person.

I was super nervous and don’t remember any of our conversation. My first impression of her was that she was way too pretty to be on a date with me.

Corey is very selfless and thoughtful. He’s generous with his time and makes me feel loved and accepted. He puts our family above his own needs. I admire his ability to make me laugh.

I love Leah’s under-rated sense of humor, her super human compassion, and her quiet strength. She perseveres through life’s challenges with a peaceful grace.

Our biggest strength as a couple is our ability to communicate well with each other…

and we have great hair.

Our biggest obstacle is blending our families. We’ve put a lot of thought into how to help our kids through this life change because they are a huge part of our lives. We want to make them feel accepted and loved as we blend our lives together.

Our dreams are to travel and find the best coffee from around the world! We want to purchase a brownstone in Chicago for the summer season and enjoy our kids as they grow into adulthood…

Ceremony: Lifepointe Church

Music:  Seven Hills Duo

Flowers: The Flower Shoppe

Dress: Von Maur

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